The history of Quabbin Reservoir begins in the early 20th century, when the city of Boston was facing a severe water shortage. The city's population had grown rapidly, and the demand for water had outpaced the supply. The city's water supply came from the Sudbury and Wachusett Reservoirs, but these were already at capacity.
In 1926, the Massachusetts legislature authorized the construction of the Quabbin Reservoir, which would be the largest man-made reservoir in the state. The reservoir would be created by damming the Swift River, a tributary of the Connecticut River.
The project to build the reservoir was a massive undertaking. It required the construction of a 1,000-foot-long earthen dam, as well as the relocation of several towns and villages that would be flooded by the reservoir. The project also involved the construction of a 20-mile-long aqueduct to carry water from the reservoir to Boston.
The Displaced Communities
The construction of the Quabbin Reservoir had a significant impact on the communities that were displaced by the project. Several towns and villages were abandoned, and their residents were forced to move to new homes. The town of Dana, which was located at the head of the reservoir, was completely submerged.
The displacement of the communities had a lasting impact on the people who lived in them. Many people felt a sense of loss and grief over the loss of their homes and communities. Some people never fully recovered from the experience.
The Importance of Quabbin Reservoir
The Quabbin Reservoir is an important source of water for the Boston metropolitan area. It provides water to over two million people, and it is also a major source of revenue for the state of Massachusetts. The reservoir is also a popular recreational destination, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking.
The Quabbin Reservoir is a reminder of the challenges that Boston faced in the early 20th century, and of the sacrifices that were made to ensure that the city had an adequate water supply. It is also a testament to the engineering and construction skills of the people who built the reservoir.